Advent always seems to pass by in the blink of an eye, and this year—with Christmas Day occurring on a Wednesday—this season is almost at its shortest. Amidst the urgency of buying a tree, stocking the pantry, and selecting gifts, how can we intentionally slow down and focus on our spiritual preparation?
A good way to stay focused is to pick a theme for each week, meditating on it during your daily prayer (and even during activities like shoveling the sidewalk or peeling apples). Here are four possible themes:
1. Hope: The first week marks the beginning of the new liturgical year. The tale of our salvation has circled back to its starting point: the expectation of the Messiah. This week intensifies our hope in the coming of a Savior Who will free us from the chains of sin and become our Way and our Light.
2. Peace: The Prince of Peace came among us at the only point in history when the whole world was at peace. Intentionally bringing stillness and peace into our souls through quiet prayer is the best groundwork for welcoming the Messiah into our homes at His Nativity.
3. Joy: While Advent and Lent share the violet vestments, the sacrificial practices, and the spirit of penance, Advent looks forward to the incredible joy of our Savior’s birth. We have been waiting for this moment for millenia, and now it is near at hand. What could bring us more happiness than the arrival of God’s greatest gift to us?
4. Love: Once the fourth week is here, only a few days remain until the Messiah is with us. Remember that God became Man because of His love for us. You can respond to this love by preparing a hospitable, loving place for Him in your soul.
This Advent, take a moment to bring these themes into your prayer. This set of four Advent Candles was designed to help you bring these themes into your home this advent season. With each candle representing the Advent theme for the four weeks, these candles will prepare your heart and home for Christmas! Available today from The Catholic Company!
